Red Algae Monopoly: The Global Economy of Agarose

When a forensic scientist analyzes crime scene DNA, or a microbiologist isolates a specific gene to develop a new vaccine, they rely on a technique called gel electrophoresis. They use electricity to pull DNA fragments through a dense, porous jelly. What most people do not realize is that the entire modern global genetics industry is completely dependent on a specific species of red seaweed. Thi...